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POEMS 

FROM THE HEART 



P-0-E-M-S 

From the Heart 




By NANNIE S. CLIFFORD 



CONTENTS 



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DARLING MOTHER 3 

NEARER TO THEE 5 

MY SHEPHERD 6 

MY REFUGE 7 

LIFE'S LESSONS. . 9 

WHY ART THOU SAD? 10 

HOLD THOU MY HAND 12 

TODAY'S RESOLUTIONS. . . 14 

THE END OF THE WAY 15 

PRAYER. . . . .16 

MY MORNING PRAYER 17 

AN EVENING PRAYER. 18 

MY NEED 19 

CHRIST'S SUFFERINGS 20 

JESUS KNOWS 22 

REPENTANCE 24 

TO A WHITE ROSE 25 

CHEER UP. 26 

MEMORIES 27 

AROUND THE CAMP FIRE. , 29 

A LITTLE CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM. 32 

SILVER CLOUDS. 36 

DO GOOD .....: 37 

ROCK OF AGES \\ 38 

THE BLESSING OF A SONG. . . /.r.W 40 

FEAR THOU NOT 46 

MY GUIDE TODAY .47 

LEAVING THE OLD CAMP GROUND. 48 



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CI.A515573 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 



TO MY DARLING MOTHER 

Mother, dear, I long to be with you today. 

My tho'ts are all of you tho' far away. 

How I long to see thy patient loving face. 

And to feel thy precious arms my neck embrace. 

How I love thee, oh, I cannot tell — 

Thy dear voice is sweeter than e'er fell 

On my ears from any other tongue, 

And I long more like thee to become. 

Ah ! Thy dear hands are far more beautiful to me 
Than any other hands I e'er shall see ; 
And thy precious face is far more fair, 
Tho' 'tis furrowed now, and aged with care. 
Darling mother, may thy years be many yet ; 
I've caused thee much care, which I regret 
From the deepest fathoms of my heart. 
Now the hot tears from my lashes start. 

As I think of all thy tender care 

For thy child, and now thy greying hair 

Speaks to me that thou art growing old ; 

But thy love is far better than gold. 

Mother — 'Tis the sweetest name I can speak, 

Save the name of Him who keeps my feet 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 

In the way which thou wouldst have them go, 
And who taught me to love mother so. 

Mother, dear, it almost breaks my heart 

When I think some day we must part; 

But then, oh then, 'twill all be well, 

For soon with Jesus and the loved ones we shall dwell 

Then Til never, never leave thee again. 

And we'll have no more sorrow nor pain. 

Then thy loving arms shall me embrace, 

And we'll meet Christ, our Savior, face to face. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 

NEARER TO THEE 

Nearer to Thee, my Savior, 

Each day I long to be, 
More Hke my blessed Redeemer, 

By faith I cling to Thee. 
Thou art my Rock of Refuge, 

Oh, keep me near Thy side! 
When the billows surround me, 

Let me in Thee abide. 

Nearer to Thee, my Savior, 

Stronger in faith let me grow ; 
Thou my Sheltering Tower, 

My heart rejoiceth to know 
Thou wilt never forsake me. 

E'en tho' I wander from Thee, 
Thou who didst love me so freely 

To die on Calvary. 

Nearer to Thee, my Savior, 

Closer to Thee let me cling, 
Till I behold Thee in glory. 

My Savior, Redeemer and King. 
Safe on Thy loving bosom, 

There I shall sweetly rest, 
And through eternal ages 

Forever I shall be blest. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 



MY SHEPHERD 

The Lord my Shepherd daily is, 

No want I e'er shall know; 
In pastures green He lets me feed, 

Still waters near me flow. 
In righteous paths He leadeth me, 

My soul He doth restore ; 
Yea, through the valley dark I walk. 

Thou wilt guide me evermore. 
Thy rod and staff comfort me, 

A table Thou dost prepare ; 

In the presence of mine enemies. 

Thou anointest my head in prayer. 
My cup of joy overflows. 

Thy mercy naught can sever, 

Thy goodness lets me dwell with Thee 

Forever and forever. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 



MY REFUGE 



God is my refuge and strength, a very present help in 
trouble. — Ps. 46:1. 

Thou art my Refuge, 

My Savior so dear; 
In Thee Fm trusting, 

No harm shall I fear. , 

Tho the storm rages, 

And billows beat wild, 
Still I can trust Thee, 

I know I'm thy child. 

When I am tempted. 

And sorely am tried, 
Still Fm rejoicing. 

For Thou art my Guide. 

E'en though afflictions 

My life may shake. 
Thou art my Keeper, 

And to Thee I may take 

All my heart's longings, 
And bitterest grief, 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 

Heaviest of burdens, 
And find sweet relief. 

Thou art my Comforter, 

In hours of pain, 
Greatest of Physicians, 

Who can heal me again. 

Hours of darkness 

Are made, oh, so bright. 
By trusting in Thee, 

My Great Shining Light. 

Help me. Dear Father, 
Keep close to Thee, 

Growing more perfect, 
'Till Thy face I shall see. 



POEMS PROM THE HEART 



LIFE'S LESSONS 

Life's sweetest lessons seem so hard to learn ; 
But things that are hardest here to bear 
Reap fruits that are the rarest and the best, 
And perhaps cost many a bitter tear. 
But all is well if thou dost only know 
Him, who doth thy burdens always view 
Because of many failures thou hast made. 
He sent down from heaven to you. 

If thro' affliction's valley thou must go. 
And many pains thy body must endure, 
Then cheerfully bear each sorrow for His sake. 
Think of the sufferings of His life so pure; 
Some thorns thy rose-strewn path must pierce, 
To draw thee nearer to thy Savior's side. 
But bravely bear thy cross unto the end. 
Until thou shalt in peace with Him abide. 



10 POEMS FROM THE HEART 



WHY ART THOU SAD? 

Why art thou cast down, do\\Ti, oh, my soul? 

Why not trust all to the Lord ? 
He hath not thee forsaken, 

But will keep His promised word. 
Why dost thou see only the shadows ? 

Surely there is some ray of light; 
If thou wilt look upward, not downward, 

And walk by faith, not by sight. 

E'en tho' the way does seem lonely, 

And storm clouds roll round you each day, 
Trust all to the Heavenly Father, 

He's willing to lead all the way. 
Why stand gazing into the darkness? 

The sun hath not ceased its shining. 
E'en tho' the clouds do look black, 

Each one has a bright silver lining. 

Then why not take all to the Helper — 
The disappointments, worry, and regret? 

He's longing to comfort and help you ; 
He's never failed you yet. 

Some clouds must darken the pathway; 
God's sending disappointments to thee, 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 11 

Because in His infinite wisdom, 
Thy future He can plainly see. 

Perhaps the things thou dost long for 

Are not the best things for you ; 
And really what seems stern reproof, 

Is God's love for you most true. 
So be content with God's way ; 

'Tis surely the best plan for thee, 
And after life's lessons are ended, 

Thou wilt clearly understand and see. 



12 POEMS FROM THE HEART 



HOLD THOU MY HAND 

Hold Thou my hand, dear Lord ; 

I am so weak and helpless — 

Hold Thou my hand. 

I must be near Thy side, 

For without Thee I am so apt to wander — 

Oh, blessed Lord, wilt Thou with me abide. 

Hold Thou my hand, dear Lord ; 

I need Thy loving presence — 

Father, oh take my hand. 

I need Thee every hour 

To keep my wayward feet from straying, 

And draw me from the tempter's power. 

Hold Thou my hand, dear Lord ; 

For I am poor and needy — 

Hold Thou my hand. 

My soul is sore afraid ; 

I dare not take one step without Thee, 

I know Thou wilt ever give me aid. 

Hold Thou my hand, dear Lord ; 
I trust Thee for Thy promise. 
I could not live — 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 13 

Without Thee as my Friend. 

All earthly friends may fail and leave me, 

But Thou wilt keep my soul unto the end. 

Hold Thou my hand, dear Lord ; 

So oft the way seems lonely — 

0, clasp my hand. 

For friends seem far away. 

I need Thy love so pure, warm and tender 

To lead me on from day to day. 

4 

Hold Thou my hand, my Lord, 

And keep my feet from falling — 

Hold Thou my hand. 

By faith I cling to Thee ; 

O wilt Thou gently lead me Savior, 

And keep me 'till all earthly shadows flee. 



14 FOKMS FROM THE HEART 



TODAYS RESOLUTIONS 

Besohred — 

To walk the straight and narrow way. 
To do Thy will everj- day ; 
To go to Thee in secret prayer. 
And leave our heavy burdens there ; 
To ponder o'er Thy precious Word, 
To strive to be like our Lord ; 
To seek Thy presence every hour. 
And resist daily the T^npter's power; 
To live a happy Christian life, # 
Thus rise above sin and strife; 
To lead the lost unto Thee, 
That their lives ma\' happy be ; 
To love and tiust thee more and more, 
Afid tell the ston' o'er and o'er; 
To those who know not Thy love, 
That they ma.v worship our King above- 
Help us to be faithful, sincere, and true 
Everj' day in all we do. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 15 



THE END OF THE WAY 

Drooping, weary and tired of the fray, 

In the busy pathway of life, 
I gladly turn my gaze away 

From the noise of battle and strife. 
When the day is o'er, in evening glow, 

To seek my Keeper and Guide, 
'Tis a joy only a Christian knows, 

To sit near the Master's side. 
So worn when the toil of the day is o'er, 

Oft times I'm ill at ease, 
What a joy to feel God understands. 

In Him I find sweet peace ! 

Trusting I sink on my pillow to rest, 

As a babe on mother's dear arm ; 
I knew she would tenderly care for me 

And keep me from all harm. 
So I know when I lean on Jesus, 

And trust in Him each day. 
The toils of the road will seem nothing 

When I get to the end of the way. 



16 POEMS FROM THE HEART 



PRAYER 

For a moment in the morning, 

Kneel alone with God in prayer ; 
E're the day begins its trials, 

Cast on Him your every care. 
When your heart is heavy laden, 

And the storm clouds near you roll, 
Cling to Christ, the loving Savior, 

The sweet Refuge of the soul. 

Tho' temptations round you gather, 

Go to God in secret prayer; 
Trust in Him and He will help you 

To escape the Tempter's snare. 
Spend a quiet hour with Jesus 

When the long day's cares are o'er ; 
Thank Him for the tender mercy. 

For the burdens that He bore. 

Just to walk so close to Jesus, 

We may hear His sweet command; 
Life is ever full of gladness, 

'Tis a song so sweet and grand. 
Oh, to live a life with Jesus, 

'Tis the happiest life to live. 
Just to ever love and trust Him, 

And each moment to Him give. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 17 



MY MORNING PRAYER 

Father, in the early morning, 

When I wake from peaceful sleep, 
E're I go about my duties, 

I must first Thy blessing seek. 
I dare inot begin the day, Lord, 

'Till Tve gone alone to pray 
Unto Thee to watch and keep me 

Through the trials of the day. 

Oh, I cannot meet the world 

'Till Tve sought Thy loving face. 
Asked for help to bear each burden 

And to give me strength and grace. 
To withstand sin's mighty power. 

Just for today — hear Thou my plea; 
But at the opening of each day. 

Still this my prayer shall be. 



18 POEMS FROM THE HEART 



AN EVENING PRAYER 

Father at this twilight hour, 
May I feel Thy Spirit near, 

As I humbly kneel before Thee, 
Unto Thee I breathe this prayer. 

Take me to Thy bosom, Father. 

Wilt thou clasp my hand in Thine? 
Tarry with me, oh, my Savior, 

Teach me of Thy will divine. 

Lord, I thank Thee for the blessings 

Which attended me today; 
For Thy tender care and mercy 

And the sunshine all the way. 

For Thy love, and kind protection 

So unworthy I have been ; 
Gentle Savior, hear my pleading, 

0, cleanse Thou my heart from sin, 

Jesus, Tm so weak and sinful. 
Much I need Thy tender care; 

Oft I wander from Thy pathway. 
But Thou dost my sorrows share. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 19 

Make me Thine, oh loving Shepherd, 

I would, O Lord of service be, 
Help me rest upon Thy promise, 

*'I will never forsake thee." 

Lord I love Thee as none other. 

For Thou suffered for my sin ; 
Oh, I long to be more like Thee, 

For Jessu' sake — Amen. 



MY NEED 

Jesus, I have need of Thee, 
Of Thy love so full and free ; 
May each sinful thought depart. 
Come and enter in my heart. 

I am sinful, full of guilt, 
But for me Thy blood was spilt. 
Thou hast promised to receive. 
All who in Thy name believe. 

I believe. Lord, 'twas for me 

Thou didst die on Calvary. 

Oh, receive me as I am. 

Thou dear Shepherd of the Lamb, 



20 POEMS FROM THE HEART 



CHRIST'S SUFFERINGS 

He loas wounded for our transgressions; 
He was bruised for our iniquities (Isa. 53.5) 

He was wounded for our sins, 

And nailed to the cruel cross 
That we might have life thro' Him, 

Tho' at a tremendous cost. 
All we have gone astray, 

As wandering sheep from the fold, 
Out in the night so dark, 

Out in the mountain so cold. 

He was oppressed and afflicted. 

But He uttered not a word; 
He bore all this for us, 

Christ Jesus, our dear Lord. 
So greatly He was despised. 

And rejected of cruel men, 
Yet it pleased God to give Him 

An offering for our sin. 

He bore the sin of many, 

And is our Rock and Shield, 
He made intercession for us. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 21 

And by His stripes we are healed. 
Can't I do something for him ? 

He's done so much for me, 
Am I not wilUng to follow Him, 

When He died on Calvary? 

Am I not willing to speak 

To others of His great love ; 
How He is ever near us. 

If we believe in Him above? 
Lord help me to serve Thee better, 

To consecrate all to Thee, 
To go where Thou wouldst have me go, 

To be what thou wouldst have me be. 



22 POEMS FROM THE HEART 



JESUS KNOWS 

Sad today, I am, and weary 

With the burdens I must bear. 
Is there no one who can help me, 

Is there no one who does care ? 
Cares enough to really help me 

Bear this awful weight of woe ; 
Just to speak a word of comfort, 

To cheer me as I onward go? 

Ah ! the darkness gathers round me. 

And no earthly help is nigh ; 
Where, then where, may I find comfort ? 

Im's so weary — must I die? 
No — I hear a voice so heavenly. 

And a ray of light I see ; 
'Tis my Savior sweetly calling. 

Weary child, come unto me. 

I know all about your struggles. 
And how oft your heart does ache. 

But remember I have promised 
I will never thee forsake. 

Fear not, for I will uphold thee, 
Only trust me as your Guide ; 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 23 

I am longing to give thee comfort, 
Only in my love abide. 

Oh ! dear Jesus, was I doubting ; 

Was it this that made me sad? 
I know Thou hast redeemed me, 

And Thy presence makes me glad. 
I will live to Thee more closely, 

Then I need not grope alone 
In the dark and gloomy hours. 

For I know Thou art my own. 



24 POEMS FROM THE HEART 



REPENTANCE 

Forgive them, Lord, at set of sun, 

The evil deeds that we have done 

Against Thy wiU, so dear and sweet ; 

We bow, dear Savior, at Thy feet, 

In humble way, just to repent 

Of flying moments we've misspent 

In idleness and foolish thought 

That afterwards have heartaches brought, 

Help us, dear Jesus, to walk the way 

That leads to life and endless day. 

Dear Savior, we desire to be 

More and more each day like Thee; 

That when Thy blessed voice we hear, 

We then shall enter the mansions fair 

With Him who died upon the cross. 

And saved our souls at such great cost. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 25 

TO A WHITE ROSE 

As I gaze on Thy snow white petals, 

Emblem of purity, so fair and white, 
I long- for a heart as pure as thou, 

A life as clean and bright. 
Thou art so pure and lovely, 

No scar mars thy beautiful form; 
For thy fragrance and beauty 

Thou art loved by every one. 

Oh ! if my heart were pure as thou. 

E'en if I lived but one day, 
I would not feel a sorrow for sin. 

And I should be happy alway. 
Oh, beautiful rose, how I love thee! 

Thou art a treasure so rare 
Of God's own wonderful handiwork, 

And I'm a child of His care. 

But I meet many temptations, 

And always have battles to fight, 
Still I've a mission somewhere to fill 

As well as thou — oh, rose so white. 
So He who formed thy white petals, 

Out of the sun and dew. 
Can a clean heart in me create, 

And keep me pure and true. 



26 POEMS FROM THE HEART 



CHEER UP, CHEER UP 

Above my window, perched high on a limb, 
A little brown bird is singing to me ; 

His little throat swells, as loudly he sings, 
And this is the song I hear from the tree : 

Oh, why be so sad on a day like this, 
For '*What is so rare as a day in June"? 

All the world should be blithe and gay, 
Everything in merriest tune. 

Cheer up, cheer up, cheer up, cheer up ! 

Oh, come, join me in my song. 
Arise, dispel all gloomy thoughts. 

And help cheer the world along ! 

0, songster, you're sweetly filling your place, 

I've learned a lesson from you ; 
Tho' the world seems drear, I'll be happy, 

And sing praises to my Maker, too. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 27 



MEMORIES 

Oh, for childhood's fleeting hours, 

When we played at mother's knee. 
Gay as the birds in springtime. 

My dear little brother and me. 
Oh, time, turn back to childhood. 

To the days we loved so dear, 
When we knew no trials nor sorrows, 

And our own hearts were free from care. 

How I love the bright springtime. 

With its song birds and sweet flowers, 
For it brings to memory thoughts 

Of roamings in sunny bowers. 
Searching for nodding daisies 

In the meadows deep and wide. 
Or for the violet's shady nook, 

By the clear brook's mossy side. 

I once had a little brother, 

The very pride of our home, 
Whom we thought the best and dearest 

The sun ever shone upon. 
We two were playmates together, 

This darling baby brother ; 



28 POEMS FROM THE HEART 

The little dainties one had, 
We shared with one another. 

Those happy fleeting hours, 
Vanished as on swift wing, 
Then an angel came to earth, 

One beautiful day in spring, 
Bore our treasure silently 
Away to the Heavenly land. 
To live with God forever 
In a mansion fair and grand. 



So among memory's pictures, 

That are cherished among the rest, 

The one of childhood's hours, 
Seemeth to me the best. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 



AROUND THE CAMP FIRE 

The day was done and the terrible fight 

Of the long, long day was o'er. 
A group of soldiers jesting sat 

Around the camp-fire low, 
To while the time and ease the pain, 

Some enjoying a rude joke. 
But off to himself a young man sat, 

And finally gravely spoke. 

''Come, boys," he cried, ''enough of this; 

If your wives and mothers dear 
Were seated round this camp-fire now, 

Would they such stories hear? 
Some way, Pm sad and lonely tonight, 

For something to soothe this pain ; 
I would give the world, if it were mine, 

To see my dear mother again. 
And my darling baby Billy, 

With eyes so blue and bright; 
'Tis for them that I am here, lads. 
Engaged in this big fight." 

"Now, listen to that — he's a sissy boy," 
Spoke one gruff voice, so loud; 



30 POEMS fro:m the heart 

"We don't want no silly talk 

In this big jolly crowd." 
''Hush, hush,'' the kindly Captain spoke, 

**I agree with this dear boy; 
If I could see my sweetheart, true, 

It would give me greatest joy." 

"Come, give us a song to help us, 

E're we lie down to sleep," 
Another manly fellow said, 

"Of Jesus' name, so sweet. 
I heard you whistling such an air; 

So come — give us a tune. 
We all should be found trusting, 

For we may meet Him soon." 

Then the night was filled with music. 

And a silence o'er them came, 
As there aiose on the still air 

The strains of ''Blessed Be His Name." 
Such words have power to quiet 

The rude and jesting, gruff, 
And the hymn of that evening 

Proved to be quite enough 
To start the careless thinking ; 

They, too, joined in the song. 
And every man was weeping 

As if a child — 'ere long. 



POEMS PROM THE HEART 31 

The tender song was ended — 

Twas the Corporal now to speak: 
"Before we on our blankets lie, 

May we God's blessing seek." 
Each head was bowed in a moment, 

And each breathed a prayer 
For God's carq and protection, 

Till the meeting "Over There." 



32 POEMS FROM THE HEART 



A LITTLE CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM 

In a grand and stately mansion, 

In a country far away, 
Lived a colonel and his household, 

Near a bright and sparkling bay. 

'Twas a bleak November evening; 

The wind was blowing cold, 
And the rain fell in torrents, 

While the clouds in fury rolled. 

They were seated near the fireside — 

This little band of three — 
When the colonel's tiny daughter 

Gently crept upon his knee. 

Oft she sat in this position. 

Telling of her tender love, 
Till the colonel thought her fairer 
Than the angels up above. 

Tonight she talked so joyfully, 

And her pretty eyes, so blue. 
Danced with rapture as she asked him, 

"Does 'ou know Desus died for 'ou?" 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 33 

*' 'Ou 'oves Him, don't 'ou, papa? 

'Ou know Dod tares for 'ou. 
Why, don't shake your head so, 

'Ou 'oves Dod, 'tourse 'ou do." 

She continued in her pleading 

Till his head began to ache. 
And he felt so very strange. 

It seemed his heart would break. 

"Mama says 'ou don't 'ove Jesus, 

But I just know 'ou do — 
Don't 'ou, papa? — and if 'ou's dood 

'Ou'U go to heaven, too. 

"And be with Dod in glory. 

And all the angels fair — 
Oh, it's so beau'ful in heaven— 

Don't 'ou want to go up there?" 

Now he could not bear it longer. 

So he pushed her from his side. 
"Well, Dod 'oves 'ou, anyway," 

Thus the baby voice cried. 



On a heavy, sleepless pillow. 

Back and forward thus he tossed. 



34 POEMS FROM THE HEART 

All night long in perfect terror, 
For he knew that he was lost. 

Lost from God and all his kindred : 

He knew if he should die 
He would never meet his darling, 
Nor dwell with God on High. 



In the rosy tints of morning, 
When he rose he found his child 

In such agony of body, 

She was almost raving wild. 

How this added to his sorrow, 
God alone can ever know. 

For he thought of how he sent her 
From his side the night before. 

How he sternly pushed her from him. 
As he heard her sweetly say, 

"If 'ou don't 'ove Dod, papa, 
He 'oves 'ou, anyway/' 

Days passed — still she lingered 

In such state of agony. 
They wondered when their darling 

Would from suffering be free. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 35 

As they watched at her bedside, 

Day by day, hour by hour. 
They reahzed naught could save her 

But God's mercy and His power. 

Twas the day before Christmas — 

Ah ! The end seemed drawing near — 

And they felt they could not see the dawn 
Without their little one, so dear. 

Thus the father sadly watched her ; 

Then he fell upon his knees. 
There he promised to serve Jesus, 

If He spared them their Louise. 

From that hour the tide was turned, 

For the Rubicon had been past. 
But they now felt assured 

That all danger had passed. 

The next morning dawned brightly — 

'Twas an ideal day; 
Ne'er was the colonel so happy, 

As on this glad Christmas Day. 

So the rich man and his family 
Offered thanks for all the year. 



36 POEMS FROM THE HEART 

That he now loved Jesus, 

And were spared their dailing, dear. 

'Twas the happiest Christmas — 
So peaceful, yet so grand; 

Thus a little child shall lead them 
In the way that God has planned. 



SILVER CLOUDS 

'Twas on a dark and stormy night, 

Black clouds overspread the sky ; 
The thunder rolled, the rain fell fast, 

And the wind was raging high. 
A weary traveler, who homeward trod. 

Was lost ^\athin the wood; 
He could not see one pace ahead. 

And call for help would do no good. 

So he sat down upon a rock, 

And thought, **ril cease repining. 
'Tho' the wind is high, the cloud's are black, 

Behind them the moon is shining.'' 
The storm passed o'er, the moon and stars 

Shone forth in brightest ray; 
The traveler rose with a glad heart 

And hastened on his way. 



POEMS PROM THE HEART 37 

E'en so it is in the pathway of life, 
'Tho' the clouds seem very near, 

If we brave the storm with a cheerful heart, 

The fury will soon disappear. 
Let us lay aside each heavy load, 

And cease our sad repining ; 
Just remember that God still reigns above, 

And soon the sun will be shining. 



DO GOOD AND BE GOOD 

If we only could remember 

To give a smile each day 
To those whom we meet, 

As we go on our busy way. 
Each heart would be brighter, 

By having done a deed 
Of sweetest love and kindness, 

To cheer a soul in need. 

If we only could remember 
To do to others as we would 

Have them do unto us. 

And just be kind and good, 

Each day would be happiei'. 
Each life so full of song. 

Let's scatter smiles and sunshine- 
Twill cheer someone along. 



S8 POEMS FROM THE HEART 



ROCK OF AGES 



Rock of Ages cleft for me, 
Let me hide myself in Thee. 
Let me to thy bosom fly, 
WTiile the tempest still is high. 
Let me feel that I may rest 
Peacefully on Thy gentle breast. 
Help me go to Thee in prayer, 
Cast on Thee my every care. 
Rock of Ages, this my plea, 
Let me hide myself in Thee. 

Let the water and Thy blood. 

From Thy wounded side which flowed. 

Cleanse and keep me from all sin — 

Keep me from the battle's din. 

May I trust Thee thro' the night, 

Love Thee when the sun shines bright. 

Jesus Lover of my soul. 

Keep me while the waters roll ; 

'Till the darkness all is past, 

Then receive my soul at last. 

In my hand t\o price I bring. 
Simply unto Thee I cling. 
Weary, I come to Thee for rest, 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 39 

Naked, come to Thee for dress. 
Weak and helpless — this my plea — 
I am trusting, Lord, in Thee. 

When I soar to world's unknown, 
See Thee on Thy judgment throne, 

Hide me, oh, my Savior, hide. 

Safe into the haven guide. 

Lead, oh, lead me safely home — 

Thou cans't save, and Thou alone. 



40 POEMS FROM THE HEART 



THE BLESSING OF A SONG 

The golden sun was sinking 

In the far off lighted \^'est. 
And nature's lowly creatures 

Seemed going to their le : 
A gentle breeze was I :ig. 

Which bore a sweet ^ : : e 
Of budding trees and : rrs> 

That would soon in eauty bloom. 

We were strolling in the twilight, 

Enjoying the bliss of spring. 
When passing a dreary tenement. 

Someone began to sing: 
"Jesus lover of my soul. 

Let me to Thy bosom fly. 
While the nearer waters roll. 

While the tempest still is high." 

The strains rang on most clearly. 
Like the pealing of a bell. 

Our hearts were filled with sadness 
As on our ears the accents fell. 

"Hide me, oh, my Savior, hide, 
Till the storm of life is past ; 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 41 

Safe into the haven guide, 
Oh, receive my soul at last/' 

Oh, how this sweet voice thrilled us. 

On and on the strains rang clear. 
Till our hearts were lifted heavenward 

By the breathing of that prayer. 
* 'Other refuge have I none, 

Hangs my helpless soul on Thee. 
Leave, oh leave, me mot alone ; 

Still support and comfort me.'' 

Then the voice seemed growing fainter, 

But we still could hear her sing, 
''Cover my defenseless head 

With the shadow of Thy wing." 
Now the tones seemed glad and joyful. 

And the words came smooth and plain, 
Bringing comfort, hope and sunshine 

To the heart made sad with pain. 

Then, just casting a glance upward, 

Whence the lovely voice had come. 
There we saw a lowly hovel, 

Yes, a place someone called home. 
Seated by the open window 

Sat this singer, sweet and fair; 
Cheeks so pale, and eyes of blue, 

And a wealth of waving hair. 



42 POEMS FROM THE HEART 

Now, we longed to know this maiden, 
And hear more of her sweet voice ; 

Tell her of her sacred music — 
How it made our hearts rejoice. 

So we ventured up the stairway 
To this dismal little home; 

Softly tapped upon the door, 

Then a voice within said ''come/ 

Sitting by the narrow window 

Was this singer, singing still ; 
With a look so bright and sunny 

On the face quite so pale and ill. 
Thus it was we met this maiden 

And beheld her smiling face — 
Which told of intense suffering, 

That had slightly left its trace. 

So it was we learned the story : 

How this girl was stricken ill, 
Years before, with a\vful suffering. 

And remained an invalid still. 
This dear girl hved with her mother. 

Just alone in this poor flat; 
All their loved ones had departed 

Years ago — she told us that. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART 43 

To that land of wond'rous beauty, 

Where all sorrow is unknown ; 
There to be with Christ our Savior, 

They to this lovely land had gone. 
Then she said, **I now am waiting 

For the coming of the King. 
Oh, what blessedness and glory 

Will His coming to me bring." 



" 'Tho' Fm happy to remain here 

Till it be His blessed way 
To remove me from this suffering 

To the glorious land of Day, 
Where the day ne'er shall darken, 

And where sorrow is unknown. 
Nothing there, save joy and sunshine — 

Oh, that is a glorious home." 

As she talked of heavenly beauties 

And of going to that place. 
As we listened to her story. 

How our hearts did ache and pain, 
While our tears flowed in pity. 

Like the falling of the rain. 



44 POEMS FROM THE HEART 

When we started on our journey, 

We had plucked a sweet bouquet 
Of the lovehest of roses — 

White and crimson, bright and gay. 
This we gave to the dear maiden, 

Then to her we softly told 
That her hymn had set us thinking — 

How our hearts had grown too cold. 

In the paths of grief and sin ; 
Because we far away had wandered 
I shall ne'er forget the radiance 

Of that joyful, beaming face, 
Then again we started homeward, 

With the promise to return 
Tlien we were won back to Jesus 

By the singing of that hymn. 
On the 'morrow with more flowers, 

And more of this young life learn. 

:j: :(c :{: 4: ^ ii< 4c 

This new morning dawned so brightly, 

So we started on our way. 
To the home of the dear invalid. 

For awhile with her to stay. 
Then again we climbed the stairway. 

Till we reached the second floor; 
There we saw black crepe floating 

Softly from the singer's door. 



POEMS FROIM THE HEART 45 

Thus we learned from the sad mother, 

How she peacefully passed away, 
Very soon after our departure, 

To the glorious land of day. 
Where all sorrow is forgotten, 

And where shadows never come — 
There to be with her loved ones — 

Christ, our Savior, and His own. 



46 POEMS FROM THE HEART 

FEAR THOU NOT 

Fear thou not, for I am icith thee; be not dismayed, for 
I am thy guide. — Isa. 41:10. 

Fear thou not, for I am with thee ; 

Be not dismayed, I am thy guide ; 
Only trust me, Fll uphold thee, 

In thy heart I will abide. 

Does thy way seem dark and dreary, 

And thy cross too hard to bear? 
Why not listen to my pleading? 

Cast on me thine every care. 

All afflictions I am sending 

Are to test thee in my love. 
And to bring thee near thy Savior — 

Fit thee for the home above. 

Hear my promise, Fll uphold thee. 

Strengthen thee when thou art weak. 
Thro' death's valley safely guide thee. 

And will keep thy trembling feet. 

Chorus : — 
Lo, Fm with thee, even always. 

Tho' thy path be dark as night, 
I will lead thee and protect thee, 

Trust in Me and all is right. 



POEMS FROM THE HEART «. 



MY GUIDE TODAY 



Many trials here I meet, 
Many thorns to pierce my feet, 

In the path I tread along life's way, 
So I need a friend that's true, 
Who will guide the journey through ; 

And I'm trusting Jesus as my guide today. 

Chorus : — 
Oh, I'm trusting Jesus as my guide today ; 
He will lead and guide me all the way. 
He will hold my trembling hand. 
When I reach the narrow strand. 
Oh, I'm trusting Jesus as my guide today. 

To the careworn and oppressed 
He has promised rest, sweet rest; 

And I'll trust Him, ever trust Him, come what may. 
When the way is dark and drear, 
And I feel the tempter near, 

I just look to Jesus, for He krows the way. 

Oh, what blessed joy He gives. 
Since within my heart He lives. 

And I tell Him all the yearnings of my soul. 
Oh, He understands it all — 
Clears my very feeble call — 

And I'm trusting Him to all my life control. 



48 POEMS FROM THE HEART 

LEAVING THE OLD CAMP GROUND 

We're leaving tonight the old camp ground — 

Let's sing a song of cheer — 
A song of home our hearts are glad, 

Thinking of our loved ones dear. 

Many are the hearts that are happy tonight, 

Waiting for the boys to come ; 
Many are the hearts joyful and light — 

The victory has been won. 

We've been talking tonight on the old camp ground, 

Of sad days gone by ; 
Of the brave who fell on the battlefield, 

And have said their last **gocd bye." 

Many are the hearts that are aching tonight, 

And cannot cease to yearn ; 
'Tho' they watch and wait at the open door, 

There are those who can't return. 

The fighting has ceased on the old camp ground. 

We've been loyal and true 
To this land of our dear U. S. A. 

The Red, the White, the Blue. 



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